More on Narendra Modi's message to the nation on Mangalyaan:

The PM said that Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision had inspired us to reach for the moon. The successful Chandrayan mission in turn led to the Mars Orbiter Mission.

"Modern India must continue playing this leading role of 'Jagad-guru Bharat'. Our efforts have historically focussed on ultimate objective of nation-building. Of translating space technology into space applications," he said.

The Prime Minister told the scientists, "Through your achievements, you have honoured our fore-fathers and inspired our future generations."